Kung Fu is a martial art that helps develop mental, physical, spiritual and emotional skills. The difference between combat sport and Kung Fu is that it takes you beyond your physical limits to explore and train your mental focus, growth and skill acquisition, integrating internal energy work known as Chi Kung. This discipline is complete and includes breath work, cardio and endurance training. Exploring Kung Fu for beginners is a fun and profound experience. You must come with an adventurous set of mind without prejudices or expectations. You will find in this post a beginner’s guide to martial arts training.
Kung Fu beginners school
When planning to try Kung Fu for the first time, you should research beforehand to connect with the styles of Kung Fu to which you are most attracted. Indeed, you may have schools cloned by that tact more traditional or contemporary styles that offer different teaching. Contact the school to learn more about it and choose the class that is suitable for you.
The school you choose will determine the quality of teaching you receive. To ensure the school’s reputation, research online or in your social circle. Ask questions about the instructor’s experience and pedagogy, and collect some testimony from actual or previous students. A good school may offer you assistance and observation of one or two classes before you decide to enter the school. That is an excellent opportunity to make an informed choice.
Physical practice
Kung Fu for beginners will focus first on the fundamentals so you learn and master the basics. Building up physical strength is fundamental, as stances, strikes, and blocks require a minimum of body control.
Kung Fu requires strength, flexibility, and endurance to be mastered. Moreover, when practising kung fu, you will gain flexibility as many stances will strengthen your muscles while giving you fluidity and agility. Dynamic tension exercises and cardio are completing the physical training during Kung Fu classes. Kung Fu physical training aims to develop your global ability rather than focusing on one part of the body or kick.
Your teachers will emphasise the necessity of regular practice and may encourage you to practice at home. Building up global body strength is an everyday work.
Kung FU Katas of forms
Kung Fu has its own choreographed movement sequences that you will learn step by step. You will learn about Katas techniques and develop coordination and flow throughout your Kung Fu journey. The more you practice those specific sequences, the more you will discover details and transitions and be aware of all muscles engaged. Focus is needed to perform each task differently. The Katas are the essence of Kung Fu and will be part of your routine. The breathing implied into it is primordial as it helps and encourages mental focus and concentration and promotes a mind-body connection.
Kung Fu philosophy
As a beginner, you will learn about the philosophy of Kung Fu and adhere to it. Kung Fu principles often include discipline, respect, humility, and self-improvement. The philosophy of Kung Fu is a highlight and a key to performing this martial art. You will develop mentally and spiritually by learning Kung Fu philosophy, which promotes mindfulness and awareness of the present moment. It also encourages empathy and integrity, helping you to deal with life issues such as stress, frustration or anger management. Adaptability and open-mindedness are qualities you will develop that will enable you to optimise your techniques and strategies. The flexibility in your body impacts the openness in your mind and vice versa.